Free Level 1 Functional Skills English in Ashford – EKC Ashford College (Elwick Road)

CostFREE
Duration53 weeks
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start3 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceEvening
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free Functional Skills English Level 1 in Ashford. Evening classes run at EKC Ashford College (Elwick Road), so you can fit study around work or other commitments. This level 1 functional skills english course covers reading, writing, and spoken communication at a level many employers ask for as a basic requirement. It also opens the door to further study. The course runs over 53 weeks part-time. A free functional skills english course for adults looking to build on their English skills and gain a recognised qualification.

Who this course is for

An essential qualification if you want to go on to further study, and a basic requirement for many jobs, this course will enable you to develop your abilities in English.

What you will learn

  • You'll read and understand different types of texts, including everyday documents and longer passages.
  • You'll write clearly for different purposes, such as letters, emails, and short reports.
  • You'll use grammar, punctuation, and spelling accurately in your writing.
  • You'll listen and respond to spoken information in formal and informal situations.
  • You'll speak clearly and contribute to discussions in a range of contexts.
  • You'll identify the main points and supporting detail in texts you read.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at EKC Ashford College (Elwick Road). Assessment is by externally set and marked tests covering reading and writing, plus a separate speaking, listening, and communication component assessed by your tutor. You'll have an initial assessment before the course begins to confirm that Level 1 is the right starting point for you. The centre will use the results to plan your learning.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. EKC Ashford College (Elwick Road) will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Care assistant: many care employers require Level 1 English as a minimum
  • Retail sales assistant: customer-facing roles often ask for this level
  • Warehouse operative: written communication needed for stock and safety records
  • Receptionist: reading and writing clearly is central to the role
  • Teaching assistant: a stepping stone toward the English level required for training
  • Customer service advisor: written and spoken English used throughout the working day

What you could study next

  • Functional Skills Qualification in English Level 2: the GCSE english equivalent recognised by employers and universities. The natural next step after Level 1.
  • GCSE English Language: available at some colleges if you want a traditional GCSE grade.
  • Level 2 vocational qualifications in areas such as business, health and social care, or childcare, many of which require Level 1 or Level 2 English alongside them.

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